Stratégies ciblant la peau en prévention des allergies alimentaires

The strategy for preventing food allergies (FA) based on the early introduction of solid allergens appears insufficient, given the increasing incidence of FA despite changes in recommendations. The complementary strategy aimed at restoring the skin barrier by applying emollients has been studied for several years. Clinical studies evaluating the effectiveness of such strategy provided conflicting results, but the study protocols are highly heterogeneous: some emollients used are actually harmful to the skin barrier, while the frequency or area of application may be insufficient to have a positive impact on the skin barrier. These studies suggest that the application of an emollient with an acidic pH (around 5.5) and ideally ceramide-based would be beneficial in the primary prevention of FA. Additionally, it is important to avoid cosmetic products containing allergens, including food derivatives. These few simple advices can already be provided by primary care physicians.